Barca comeback at Calderon

In the clash between the last two champions, Fernando Torres put Atletico ahead in the 51st minute, only for Neymar to equalize from a free kick four minutes later.

Messi was on the bench following the recent birth of his second son. But he went on for the final half hour and immediately changed the match, scoring the 77th-minute winner from Luis Suarez's pass.

"When we have the best player with us, we all play better," Neymar said.

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FC Barcelona manager Luis Enrique said he spoke with Messi before the match and decided it was better not to start him to avoid a risk of injury, after Messi also played two friendlies with Argentina in the United States before the birth of his son.


"Leo is very, very important for us and his level of fitness is key," Luis Enrique said. "We know the importance of these points, but there is a long way to go."

"We didn't play a good match," Atletico coach Diego Simeone said. "When they scored the equalizer we lost our control on the game. Messi is used to breaking open games and, once again, he was the difference."


Barcelona moved to the top of the standings after the defending champion's third win in as many rounds. Madrid was two points behind, and Atletico three behind.

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